Bengaluru: The first case of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection has been detected in Bengaluru on Monday.

According to the state health department, the infection was found in an eight-month-old child with no travel history at the Baptist Hospital in the northern part of the city. However, the state health department clarified that the sample was not tested in their lab.

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Meanwhile, the Karnataka government has notified the Union Health Ministry of the development. 

What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), discovered in 2001, belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, which also includes the well-known Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Despite being officially identified in 2001, studies have shown that HMPV has existed in humans for over 60 years and is found worldwide.

The virus can cause both upper and lower respiratory diseases in individuals of all ages, though young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems are most vulnerable.

(More details awaited)